Name: Peppermint Brownies Frosted
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (melted); 2 cups sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp peppermint extract; 1 cup butter (softened); 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk; 1 tsp peppermint extract

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Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite treat: peppermint brownies frosted! These delightful little squares have been a staple in my home for as long as I can remember. The first time I made them, I was just a kid, standing on a stool in my mom’s kitchen, with my little hands covered in flour and cocoa powder. The smell of melting chocolate and peppermint wafting through the air was pure magic! Every holiday season, these brownies became our family’s go-to dessert, loved by everyone, from the youngest to the oldest. They’re rich, fudgy, and topped with a creamy frosting that just sings with peppermint flavor!

What I adore most is how these brownies bring everyone together. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, they always make an appearance. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is not only classic but unforgettable. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Ingredients List

To make these scrumptious peppermint brownies frosted, you’ll need the following ingredients, carefully measured and ready to go:

For the Brownies:
1 cup of melted butter – Make sure it’s nice and warm, but not bubbling. This will give your brownies that rich, fudgy texture!
2 cups of sugar – This sweetens the brownies beautifully. Don’t skimp here; it’s what makes them irresistible!
4 large eggs – These will bind everything together and add that lovely moistness.
1 cup of cocoa powder – Use unsweetened cocoa for that deep chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with peppermint.
1 cup of all-purpose flour – This gives structure to your brownies without making them too cake-like.
1 teaspoon of peppermint extract – This is where the magic happens! It infuses the brownies with a refreshing minty flavor.

For the Frosting:
1 cup of softened butter – Let it sit out for a bit to get creamy, which makes for a smooth frosting.
4 cups of powdered sugar – This sweetens the frosting and gives it that dreamy, fluffy consistency.
2 tablespoons of milk – Just enough to loosen the frosting to a spreadable texture.
1 teaspoon of peppermint extract – To keep that delightful minty vibe going in the frosting!

And, if you want to get fancy, consider sprinkling some crushed peppermint candies on top for an extra festive touch!

How to Prepare Peppermint Brownies Frosted

Now that we have all our ingredients prepped and ready, let’s dive into making these luscious peppermint brownies frosted! It’s a straightforward process, but each step is essential for creating that rich, fudgy goodness we all love.

Preparing the Brownie Batter

First, grab a mixing bowl and combine that warm melted butter with the sugar. You’ll want to mix them together until it’s smooth and creamy; this is where the magic begins! Then, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the batter, making your brownies light and fluffy. Next, sift in the cocoa powder and flour, along with that wonderful peppermint extract. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as we want to keep that fudgy texture! The batter will be thick and deliciously chocolatey, with a hint of mint that’ll make your taste buds tingle.

Baking the Brownies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) – this step is crucial for even baking! While it heats up, grease and flour your baking pan to ensure your brownies don’t stick. Once the oven is ready, pour your brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes, but keep an eye on them. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs; that’s the sign they’re perfectly done! If it comes out wet, give them a couple more minutes. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit as they cool, so don’t overdo it!

Making the Frosting

While the brownies are cooling, it’s time to whip up that dreamy frosting! In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy – this usually takes a couple of minutes. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low until it’s all combined. Then, pour in the milk and peppermint extract. Turn up the speed and beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. You want it creamy and luscious, perfect for slathering on those brownies!

Assembling the Dessert

Once your brownies are completely cool, it’s time for the grand assembly! Spread that luscious frosting generously over the top of the brownies, making sure every corner is covered. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle some crushed peppermint candies on top; they add a delightful crunch and a pop of color! Allow the frosting to set a bit before cutting the brownies into squares. I love using a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts. Now, serve them up and watch everyone’s eyes light up with joy when they take that first bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can whip up these peppermint brownies in under an hour, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cravings!
Rich and Fudgy: Each bite is packed with deep chocolate flavor and a hint of refreshing peppermint, creating a dessert that’s simply irresistible.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, like crushed peppermint candies or a drizzle of chocolate, to make them uniquely yours!
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a holiday party, a birthday, or just a cozy night in, these brownies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Nostalgic Delight: They bring back sweet memories of baking and sharing with loved ones, making every bite a trip down memory lane!

Tips for Success

To make sure your peppermint brownies frosted turn out absolutely perfect, here are some handy tips to keep in mind!

Check Your Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if you have one. Oven temperatures can be off, and you want your brownies to bake evenly.
Don’t Overmix: When you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you see no more flour. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of the fudgy texture we all love!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and extracts are fresh. Old ingredients can dull the flavors, and we want that peppermint to shine!
Cool Completely Before Frosting: It’s tempting to frost warm brownies, but you’ll end up with a melty mess. Let them cool completely for a clean frosting application!
Storage Tips: Keep your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for several days, but I bet they won’t last that long!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re sure to impress everyone with your peppermint brownies frosted. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information

These peppermint brownies frosted are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also offer a delightful balance of nutritional elements! Each brownie comes in at around 250 calories, which is pretty reasonable for a decadent dessert. You’ll find approximately 12 grams of fat, with 7 grams being saturated fat. They pack about 3 grams of protein, making them a little more than just sugar and chocolate!

When it comes to carbohydrates, each brownie contains about 35 grams, including 20 grams of sugar that contribute to their sweetness. Plus, there’s a bit of fiber in there too, approximately 1 gram. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. So, if you’re counting, make sure to adjust accordingly. Enjoying these brownies is all about balance, so savor every bite!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making these delightful peppermint brownies frosted? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get from fellow bakers:

Can I store these brownies, and how long do they last? Absolutely! Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-5 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
What if I don’t have peppermint extract? No worries! You can substitute with vanilla extract for a different flavor, or use a combination of vanilla and a small amount of almond extract for a unique twist. Just remember, it won’t have that signature minty flavor.
Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, you can! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, and you should be good to go! The texture might vary slightly, but it’ll still taste delicious.
What toppings can I add for extra flair? Get creative! Crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings make fantastic toppings. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for an extra layer of indulgence!
Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Definitely! You can prepare the brownies a day in advance. Just frost them the day you plan to serve for the freshest taste. They’re perfect for make-ahead holiday treats!

If you have more questions, feel free to ask! I love sharing tips and tricks to help you create the best peppermint brownies frosted ever!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my delightful peppermint brownies frosted! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings. Trust me, once you share these fudgy treats with family and friends, they’ll be begging for the recipe! I’d love to hear how your baking adventure goes, so please drop a comment below and let me know about your own twists or favorite memories tied to these brownies.

And hey, if you’re on social media, snap a pic of your finished brownies and share it with me! Tag me so I can celebrate your delicious creations. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and the sweet scent of peppermint!